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Our Team
The Tourism Richmond team is comprised of a dedicated volunteer board of directors representing the entire tourism industry within Richmond and a professional group of staff knowledgeable in marketing, sales, communications, visitor and partner services, technology and administration.
Executive Committee
Scott has not only worked in the hospitality industry his entire career, but his experience also covers all areas of hotel operations including Director of Sales, Director of...
Scott has not only worked in the hospitality industry his entire career, but his experience also covers all areas of hotel operations including Director of Sales, Director of Operations and General Manager. Scott's profession has taken his family across Western Canada, with positions in Edmonton, Calgary, Penticton, Whistler, Richmond and Vancouver. Prior to starting with Sandman Hotels Inns & Suites in 2002, Scott worked with Delta Hotels & Resorts, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, Travelodge and a number of independent hotels and resorts. Scott obtained Certified Hospitality Administrator (CHA) designation in 1996 and previously served on the board of directors with the British Columbia & Yukon Hotel Association and the Vancouver Hotel Association.
As General Manager of the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Riverport, Rob Gillis’s involvement with this gem in the Marquee Hotels Group’s portfolio was from the...
As General Manager of the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Riverport, Rob Gillis’s involvement with this gem in the Marquee Hotels Group’s portfolio was from the foundation up. Rob's hotel management background spans over 10 years. Having managed properties for Wall Financial & Leisure Lodge Hotels and worked with Sandman Hotels as a Regional Director, Rob is excited to be back in the Richmond marketplace where his career began.
Vince Morlet is the proud owner of Tapenade Bistro in Steveston Village, which opened in 2003. Vince moved to Richmond in 1982 and has been involved with many organizations over the...
Vince Morlet is the proud owner of Tapenade Bistro in Steveston Village, which opened in 2003. Vince moved to Richmond in 1982 and has been involved with many organizations over the years. He has lived and worked in France, Brazil and the United States and holds a BA in Political Science from Simon Fraser University, as well as a Diploma in Hospitality from Vancouver Community College. His extended family has lived in the Steveston area since the 1960’s, and because of his strong ties to the city, Vince is committed to the positive growth of tourism in Steveston and Richmond.
Mary Kemmis has more than 20 years experience in both the print and broadcast industries. She began her career as a journalist before moving into sales and sales management at...
Mary Kemmis has more than 20 years experience in both the print and broadcast industries. She began her career as a journalist before moving into sales and sales management at community newspapers and radio stations in British Columbia, Ontario and Alberta. Publisher of the Richmond Review newspaper for more than five years, Mary has a strong history of community involvement and has served on the boards of a number of community organizations, including the Gateway Theatre, Banff Canada Day, and First Night organizing boards, and the Kwantlen University College Board of Governors and Volunteer.
(Photo Background: The Spirit of Haida Gwaii: the Jade Canoe” by Haida artist Bill Reid, 1993. The second and final bronze casting. In the collection of the Vancouver International Airport Authority.)
Roland Monteiro has worked in the hospitality industry for over 25 years. Since joining the River Rock team in 2004, Roland has held various management positions in food and beverage...
Roland Monteiro has worked in the hospitality industry for over 25 years. Since joining the River Rock team in 2004, Roland has held various management positions in food and beverage as well as sales. He was appointed as the General Manager, Hospitality Operations in 2007. Previously, he held roles with The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, Grouse Mountain and the Pan Pacific Hotel. Roland holds a Diploma in Hotel Management and has achieved the designation of a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP). He is currently a member of the Vancouver Board of Trade and the Douglas College Hospitality Advisory Committee, and was a past Board Director of the British Columbia Hotel Association.
Andy Shimizu actively supports tourism in Richmond and participates in a growing list of committees, including the Travel Industry Advisory Group with Consumer Protection BC, Chair of...
Andy Shimizu actively supports tourism in Richmond and participates in a growing list of committees, including the Travel Industry Advisory Group with Consumer Protection BC, Chair of the Advocacy Committee, Canadian Inbound Tourism Association - Asia Pacific (CITAP) and as CITAP’s alternate representative with the Council of Tourism Associations of BC. Andy believes that tourism in Richmond today stands on the cusp of tremendous and exciting opportunities that will forever positively shape its future.
Sheila Luft recently moved to Richmond and became the General Manager of Richmond Centre South after having spent the past fifteen years in the property management and retail...
Sheila Luft recently moved to Richmond and became the General Manager of Richmond Centre South after having spent the past fifteen years in the property management and retail industries in Calgary. A graduate of the business program from the University of Calgary specializing in marketing, Sheila’s interests include walking, reading, travelling and volunteering and she looks forward to working with the community to promote Richmond as a visitor destination of choice.
Bruce is President of COUNTERPOINT Communications Inc, a company that specializes in developing and implementing strategies for crisis communications, public consultation, government...
Bruce is President of COUNTERPOINT Communications Inc, a company that specializes in developing and implementing strategies for crisis communications, public consultation, government relations at all levels, real estate development and business development in general. He is also President of 11th Hour Productions, a video production company. Bruce is nationally-recognized expert in crisis communications and strategic communications, and works with all major business sectors. He also is a well-known policy and political advisor, having worked in the Prime Ministers Office and with the BC Premiers Office. And he is an award-winning video producer.
- Executive Director of the Council of Resource Community Mayors of BC
- Vice Chair of the Lower Mainland Economic Sustainability Panel
- President of Volunteer Richmond Information Services
- President of the Steveston Historical Society
- Past director of the Richmond Chamber of Commerce and the Vancouver Board of Trade
Originally from Taipei, Albert Tseng has been in the travel industry in Canada for over 10 years focusing on inbound travel from China and since 2001, has been the owner of Natural...
Originally from Taipei, Albert Tseng has been in the travel industry in Canada for over 10 years focusing on inbound travel from China and since 2001, has been the owner of Natural Travel Services (NTS). Previously, Albert worked at Utopia Travel where he became a partner and then owner in less than two years. A Member of Canadian Inbound Tourism Association Asia Pacific (CITAP) since 1998, Albert has served on the Board of Directors and as Vice President before being elected President in 2007. A graduate of Tam Kung University, he holds a degree in Computer Science.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors focuses on policy and program development, oversees the management of Tourism Richmond, monitors organizational performance, and ensures that the mandate of the organization is carried out. The Board represents each of the sectors in tourism, including accommodations, attractions, restaurants, transportation and retail.
Prior to his current position with Accent Inns, Chris Browne served as General Manager for the Plaza 500 in Vancouver and worked with the Oberoi Hotels Worldwide Group. He is a Member...
Prior to his current position with Accent Inns, Chris Browne served as General Manager for the Plaza 500 in Vancouver and worked with the Oberoi Hotels Worldwide Group. He is a Member of the Board for the British Columbia & Yukon Hotels Association Zone 1, and is a current and former Board of Director of the Richmond Rotary Club. Chris, who believes positive change is created through effective leadership, is involved in teaching and sharing industry-related experiences with various hospitality colleges and educational establishments in the Lower Mainland and in the Greater Vancouver area.
As the President of Mar-Con Wire Belt Inc, Michael Chiu brings more than 30 years experience in manufacturing industries. A resident of Richmond for over 30 years, he is actively...
As the President of Mar-Con Wire Belt Inc, Michael Chiu brings more than 30 years experience in manufacturing industries. A resident of Richmond for over 30 years, he is actively involved in his community, having served as a founding member, Past President, and Community Director of The Richmond Sunset Rotary Club and President of Volunteer Richmond Information Services Society. Michael has also been the Director of The Richmond Community Foundation, Director, a founding member of the Richmond Chinese Community Society, and Director of Strathcona Employment Assistance Services.
Peter Leung has been the Marketing Director for Posh Charcoal Collaboration Dining since the restaurant’s inception in 2007. In this role, Peter is primarily responsible for...
Peter Leung has been the Marketing Director for Posh Charcoal Collaboration Dining since the restaurant’s inception in 2007. In this role, Peter is primarily responsible for marketing, business expansion and floor operations. Posh, under his direction and restaurant experience, has expanded to three restaurants within two short years. His previous career was in Financial Services, where he focused on product marketing and sales training to provide the best possible consultation services for middle-income Canadians. Peter has spent most of his life in Vancouver, where he grew up and studied Marketing and Sales Management at Capilano College.
A Richmond resident since 1983, Paramjit ventured into the blueberry farming business and served as President and CEO of Richmond Taxi before undertaking his latest endeavor as the...
A Richmond resident since 1983, Paramjit ventured into the blueberry farming business and served as President and CEO of Richmond Taxi before undertaking his latest endeavor as the owner of eco-friendly Garden City Cabs of Richmond. Parmjit is also a realtor with Royal Pacific Realty Group and currently serves as General Manager of CPS Enterprises Ltd. An avid philanthropist, he donates both time and resources to a number of non-profit organizations and helps to organize various sports and cultural events in the local Punjabi community.
Born and raised in the Lower Mainland, Gary Rudin’s 20 years in the hotel industry began in Richmond at the Executive Express Hotel. Gary has been in his current role with Four...
Born and raised in the Lower Mainland, Gary Rudin’s 20 years in the hotel industry began in Richmond at the Executive Express Hotel. Gary has been in his current role with Four Points Sheraton for 10 years. For the past eight years he has been extensively involved with Tourism Richmond having held various positions including Treasurer, Vice President, President, Past President, Secretary, and Chair of the Asia Pacific Trade and Showcase Centre Committee. Gary has been active with the Rotary Club of Richmond for the past seven years and has served on the Economic Advisory Task Force with the City of Richmond.
Holding a keen interest in aviation, Jason Tse has been employed with the Vancouver Airport Authority for over 10 years. Previously he held a position in Corporate Finance, and...
Holding a keen interest in aviation, Jason Tse has been employed with the Vancouver Airport Authority for over 10 years. Previously he held a position in Corporate Finance, and currently serves as Manager, Marketing Research, where he is involved in recruiting new airlines as well as developing traffic forecasts and gathering industry intelligence. Jason is also the Treasurer of the Vancouver Chapter of the Hong Kong Canada Business Association and is an instructor at the BCIT Airport Operations program. As a Richmond resident for over 30 years, he is amazed by the amount of change to the City and eagerly anticipates a prosperous future for Richmond.
A hotel industry veteran with over 23 years of experience, Steve Veinot held various positions with the Hilton Vancouver Airport in Richmond prior to joining the Sheraton Vancouver...
A hotel industry veteran with over 23 years of experience, Steve Veinot held various positions with the Hilton Vancouver Airport in Richmond prior to joining the Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel as General Manager. Steve has spent the majority of his life in Ottawa, Ontario where he graduated from the University of Ottawa and immediately entered the hospitality field working with the Holiday Inn, Radisson and Marriott brands.
Kathryn Warren has been in the hotel industry, both in Toronto and Vancouver, for over 23 years, and is an active contributor to the Richmond business community. She has served two...
Kathryn Warren has been in the hotel industry, both in Toronto and Vancouver, for over 23 years, and is an active contributor to the Richmond business community. She has served two terms as President of Tourism Richmond and held the post of Chair of the Tourism Richmond Marketing Committee. Kathryn is past Chair of the Richmond Hotel Association and served on the Board of Directors for the Richmond Chamber of Commerce.
Board Committees
Each of the Board Committees focuses on making sure policy and program development for specific interests are within the mandate of the organization. These committees are information-sharing forums integral to our program and service development. Directors of the Board typically participate on at least one committee, lending their experience to the success of the association. A complete list of the current board committees is below.
Tourism Richmond’s China Sales & Marketing Committee shall advise, assist, provide direction and support in accomplishing the China Sales & Marketing Committee’s...
Tourism Richmond’s China Sales & Marketing Committee shall advise, assist, provide direction and support in accomplishing the China Sales & Marketing Committee’s key objectives:
- To increase Chinese visits
- To increase stays as measured by room nights
- To increase spending
Albert Tseng is the Chair of the China Sales & Marketing Committee.
The Finance Committee makes recommendations to the Executive Committee on financial policies. The Committee is comprised of no less than 70 percent by Directors representing the...
The Finance Committee makes recommendations to the Executive Committee on financial policies. The Committee is comprised of no less than 70 percent by Directors representing the Richmond Accommodation Industry Classification. The Committee ensures that the financial matters of Tourism Richmond are in accordance with the BC Society Act and recognized accounting and control practices, and oversees the annual audit. Andy Shimizu is the Chair of the Finance Committee.
The Marketing Committee develops and recommends marketing plans and strategies to increase tourism business for Tourism Richmond members and the City of Richmond. It monitors the...
The Marketing Committee develops and recommends marketing plans and strategies to increase tourism business for Tourism Richmond members and the City of Richmond. It monitors the effectiveness of marketing programs and ensures that they are carried out within the policy guidelines established by the Board of Directors. Sheila Luft is the Chair of the Marketing Committee.
The Steveston Committee recommends opportunities for policies and programs to the Executive Committee and the Board of Directors, relative to marketing, visitor and partner/member...
The Steveston Committee recommends opportunities for policies and programs to the Executive Committee and the Board of Directors, relative to marketing, visitor and partner/member opportunities for the Historic Fishing Village of Steveston. The committee ensures that the tourism interests of Steveston are communicated to the Executive Committee and to the Board of Directors through the chair of the committee and to the staff of Tourism Richmond. Bruce Rozenhart is the Chair of the Steveston Committee.
The Visitor and Members Services Committee recommends and supports the development of policies and programs to increase the effectiveness of Tourism Richmond's Visitor and Member...
The Visitor and Members Services Committee recommends and supports the development of policies and programs to increase the effectiveness of Tourism Richmond's Visitor and Member Services, including the volunteer program and the Gateway Awards. Mary Kemmis is the Chair of this Committee.
Staff
Tourism Richmond’s team of professionals are dedicated to promoting Richmond, British Columbia as a visitor, meeting and event destination. Our staff team consists of Marketing, Sales, Communications, and Visitor and Partner Services, supported by current technology and Administration. Get to know us – we’re at your service.
Senior Leadership Team
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is responsible for providing leadership to position the organization at the forefront of the industry as a leading travel destination and to develop a...
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is responsible for providing leadership to position the organization at the forefront of the industry as a leading travel destination and to develop a strategic plan advancing the organization’s mission and objectives that promote revenue, profitability and growth. The CEO oversees company operations to insure production efficiency, quality, service and cost-effective management of resources.
FAVOURITE SPOT: A farm road around No. 6 Road - Cycling the many backroads in Richmond is one of my favourite things to do, whether I'm on my road bike, training, or on my old mountain bike, shopping for fresh veggies, eggs and flowers.
The Director of Visitor and Partner Services is responsible for the membership relations and communications, managing all visitor servicing including the operation of our Visitor Info...
The Director of Visitor and Partner Services is responsible for the membership relations and communications, managing all visitor servicing including the operation of our Visitor Info Centres and developing and maintaining partnership relations within the community.
FAVOURITE SPOT: River Rock Buffet - Fresh salad, carving station, fresh baked breads, lots of desserts and all you can eat! Isn't it everyone's favourite??
The Director of Sales is responsible for developing and implementing a sales strategy for the meeting and event and tour and travel markets that increase room nights. This...
The Director of Sales is responsible for developing and implementing a sales strategy for the meeting and event and tour and travel markets that increase room nights. This includes generating sales leads, acting as our industry’s liaison with the Sport Hosting department with the City of Richmond and advancing sales opportunities in all markets.
FAVOURITE SPOT: Dyke, Northwest Zone overlooking airport - Taking my beautiful golden retriever Sasha out every day to enjoy a peaceful, serene long walk along the dyke; early mornings and/or evenings to take in the most gorgeous sunsets of all.
The Director of Communications is responsible for the development and execution of the organization’s corporate communications and media relations plans including crisis...
The Director of Communications is responsible for the development and execution of the organization’s corporate communications and media relations plans including crisis communications and issues management. In this role, the Director creates media relations programs designed to generate media coverage and awareness of Richmond as a preferable travel destination.
FAVOURITE SPOT: Steveston Farmers and Artisans Market - Rows of silver jewelry, jars of pickled vegetables, fresh-baked goods, clever crafts and an entrepreneurial spirit that I find inspiring – the Steveston Farmers and Artisans Market is where I am on those hot, sunny Sundays in the summer.
The Operations Manager is responsible for the organization’s office...
The Operations Manager is responsible for the organization’s office productivity including identifying and securing the appropriate technology, human resources and administration processes. The Operations Manager also supports and acts as a liaison for the Board of Directors.
FAVOURITE SPOT: The Tapestry Church (9280 No. 2 Rd.) - Three hundred people in the congregation from all over the world. Events where we celebrate different cultures and contribute to the community. The Tapestry is a microcosm of Richmond – multi-cultural, multi-generational, full of energy, and certainly a hidden gem.
Administration
The Accounting Manager is responsible for all the accounting-related tasks, including payables, receivables, monthly financial statements, and annual audit.
...
The Accounting Manager is responsible for all the accounting-related tasks, including payables, receivables, monthly financial statements, and annual audit.
FAVOURITE SPOT: SilverCity Riverport Movie Theatre - Going to the cinema is one of my favourite ways to relax. I've had many fantastic experiences in this Cineplex theatre. I'm also quite sure this is where my husband and I watched our first movie in Canada after immigrating here.
Communications
FAVOURITE SPOT: Steveston Farmers and Artisans Market - Rows of silver jewelry, jars of pickled vegetables, fresh-baked goods, clever crafts and an entrepreneurial spirit that I find inspiring – the Steveston Farmers and Artisans Market is where I am on those hot, sunny Sundays in the summer.
The Communications Specialist assists the Director of Communications with media relations.
FAVOURITE SPOT: International Buddhist Temple - The International...
The Communications Specialist assists the Director of Communications with media relations.
FAVOURITE SPOT: International Buddhist Temple - The International Buddhist Temple is a peaceful oasis tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Steveston Highway. Regardless of what mood I enter in, the impressive architecture, rich aroma of incense and gorgeous garden always have me leaving calm and contented.
The Communications Assistant acts as the connection to develop marketing, visitor services and membership programs for Tourism Richmond. Suzanne assists with media relations to promote...
The Communications Assistant acts as the connection to develop marketing, visitor services and membership programs for Tourism Richmond. Suzanne assists with media relations to promote our members to media contacts that Tourism Richmond connects with.
FAVOURITE SPOT: Southwest tip of Garry Point Park - Mountain views of the "Lions" and YVR to the north. Vancouver Island and the Fraser River to the south, and a 100-metre walk east to the world-famous Pajo's Fish and Chips.
Marketing
The Marketing Manager is responsible for all leisure marketing activities that Tourism Richmond implements throughout the year. Areas that Brittany is responsible for and can assist...
The Marketing Manager is responsible for all leisure marketing activities that Tourism Richmond implements throughout the year. Areas that Brittany is responsible for and can assist with, include: Cooperative Leisure Marketing Campaigns, Marketing Campaigns and Advertisements, and Promotional Materials
Sales
The Director of Sales is responsible for developing and implementing a sales strategy for the meeting and event and tour and travel markets that increase room nights. This...
The Director of Sales is responsible for developing and implementing a sales strategy for the meeting and event and tour and travel markets that increase room nights. This includes generating sales leads, acting as our industry’s liaison with the Sport Hosting department with the City of Richmond and advancing sales opportunities in all markets.
FAVOURITE SPOT: Dyke, Northwest Zone overlooking airport - Taking my beautiful golden retriever Sasha out every day to enjoy a peaceful, serene long walk along the dyke; early mornings and/or evenings to take in the most gorgeous sunsets of all.
The National Sales Manager is responsible for increasing group room nights and increasing visitor stays through lead generation and solicitation of specific convention & meetings...
The National Sales Manager is responsible for increasing group room nights and increasing visitor stays through lead generation and solicitation of specific convention & meetings markets throughout Canada. Deidre’s sales efforts include organizing and initiating in-market sales missions, telemarketing, direct mail campaigns, electronic media, and trade show participation at key Canada corporate, association, and incentive industry-related shows.
FAVOURITE SPOT: London Heritage Farm - I have lived in Richmond off and on since 1976 and have seen many, many changes. London Heritage Farm is definitely one of my favourite things.
The Sales Project Manager assists the Director of Sales in carrying out all sales initiatives and projects.
FAVOURITE SPOT: Fraser River dyke trail - While cycling along...
The Sales Project Manager assists the Director of Sales in carrying out all sales initiatives and projects.
FAVOURITE SPOT: Fraser River dyke trail - While cycling along the Middle Arm of the Fraser River dyke trail, I see the airport and mountains and pass UBC Boathouse and the Richmond Olympic Oval en route to my favourite spot.
FAVOURITE SPOT: Terra Nova Natural Area - My favourite spot in Richmond is the Terra Nova Natural Area where I can enjoy a lovely view of the airport with the North Shore Mountains in...
FAVOURITE SPOT: Terra Nova Natural Area - My favourite spot in Richmond is the Terra Nova Natural Area where I can enjoy a lovely view of the airport with the North Shore Mountains in the background, and Vancouver Island on a clear, sunny day.
Visitor and Partner Services
The Director of Visitor and Partner Services is responsible for the membership relations and communications, managing all visitor servicing including the operation of our Visitor Info...
The Director of Visitor and Partner Services is responsible for the membership relations and communications, managing all visitor servicing including the operation of our Visitor Info Centres and developing and maintaining partnership relations within the community.
FAVOURITE SPOT: River Rock Buffet - Fresh salad, carving station, fresh baked breads, lots of desserts and all you can eat! Isn't it everyone's favourite??
Roberta assists the Director, Visitor & Partner Services in carrying out all initiatives and projects with our members and partners. Please contact Roberta about any of our member...
Roberta assists the Director, Visitor & Partner Services in carrying out all initiatives and projects with our members and partners. Please contact Roberta about any of our member or partner programs, including upcoming seminars and events and the Service Awards program.
FAVOURITE SPOT: Terra Nova Sharing Garden - Being here restores my five senses and makes me appreciate everything about being alive. You must visit Terra Nova Sharing Garden, belonging to each of us. Here you will experience serenity, peace, and the beauty of nature and our magnificent city.
Stacey is responsible for expanding the diversity of membership within Tourism Richmond based on the following industry types:
- Accommodation ...
Stacey is responsible for expanding the diversity of membership within Tourism Richmond based on the following industry types:
- Accommodation
- Attractions / Recreation
- Retail
- Food & Beverage
- Transportation & Travel
- Industry Services
- Non-Profit Organizations
Do you know of any businesses that would benefit from a membership with Tourism Richmond? Contact Stacey today!
FAVOURITE SPOT: Richmond Centre - One of the best shopping experiences here at Richmond Centre. With over 240 stores and services, you will for sure find what you are looking for! Retail therapy, here I come!
Briony is responsible for the day-to-day operations of our Visitor Centres at Highway 99 at the George Massey tunnel (year-round) and Steveston (seasonally). Briony takes care of...
Briony is responsible for the day-to-day operations of our Visitor Centres at Highway 99 at the George Massey tunnel (year-round) and Steveston (seasonally). Briony takes care of brochure racking; visitor, member and general inquiries; reservations; and retail inquiries.
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Our Favourite Places
The stunning architecture and the ice rinks bring back spine-tingling memories of the 2010 Winter Olympics!
